Farm to School Service Provider Grant

The Farm to School Service Provider Grant is administered by the Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food & Markets (VAAFM) through the Vermont Farm to School and Early Childhood Program. This program, authorized by the Rozo Mclaughlin Farm-to-School Program Act of 2006, aims to enhance the availability of farm to school resources, training, and technical assistance across the state. Since its inception, the program has awarded 339 grants, amounting to $2.4 million in state funds, impacting over 158 schools, districts, and 160 early childhood education programs in Vermont. The primary purpose of this competitive grant is to support non-profit organizations in Vermont that will assist multiple schools and early childhood education programs in launching or expanding their farm to school initiatives. The goal is to broaden the support infrastructure at both regional and statewide levels, ensuring that farm to school services such as procurement support, garden and curriculum integration, nutrition education, and professional development are more accessible across Vermont. The funding available for this opportunity totals $200,000, with individual awards ranging between $10,000 and $40,000. Grantees will have up to 18 months to complete their projects. Funds are disbursed in three phases: 40% upon initiation, 40% mid-project following an interim report, and the final 20% upon project completion. There is no requirement for matching funds, although grantees may include cash or in-kind contributions. Pre-award costs may be allowed with prior approval. Eligible applicants are strictly limited to non-profit organizations based in Vermont. Projects must serve at least three eligible educational institutions, including public schools and districts, independent schools participating in federal nutrition programs, registered early childhood education programs, or licensed afterschool programs. At least one letter of commitment or support is required with the application. Projects must also demonstrate clear demand for services and provide strategic outreach to maximize access to resources and support. Applications must be submitted via the WebGrants system between August 25, 2025, and October 6, 2025. An optional informational webinar will be held on September 9, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM. The anticipated project start date is February 2026, with projects ending by July 2027 and final reports due in August 2027. The evaluation process involves independent reviewers who assess alignment with funding priorities, collaboration strength, budget justification, and overall impact on the Vermont Farm to School network. Applicants are encouraged to thoroughly review the Request for Applications (RFA) document and follow the Application Guide provided by VAAFM. Contact persons for the grant include Gina Clithero (gina.clithero@vermont.gov, 802-585-6225) for program questions and Lily Bradburn (lily.bradburn@vermont.gov, 802-480-1652) for WebGrants technical support. Required documents for awardees include a certificate of insurance, IRS Form W-9, and a good standing certification. Applications will be considered incomplete without confirmation of submission via the WebGrants platform.

Reviewers value alignment with priorities, evidence of demand, clear measurable outcomes, and collaborative partnerships.